Equity, Diversity, Inclusion
United Way is committed to supporting an inclusive and equitable community that respects and values the diversity of everyone.
The Challenge
Reasons We Care
United Way is rooted in building strong and inclusive communities. We strive to create opportunities for everyone to reach their full potential. However, many of the issues United Way works to address have a disproportionate impact on black, Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQ2+, people with disabilities, and other marginalized communities. We acknowledge that, due to systemic factors, some members of our community experience barriers to accessing programs, services, and funding.
To build a thriving community we must ensure that everyone has access to the support they need. As community builders, we must make sure that our communities of Guelph, Wellington, and Dufferin are equitable, safe, and inclusive places where everyone has access to the support they need to live a great life, regardless of their race, sexual identity, ability, or gender.
We are committed to supporting communities where everyone feels like they belong and are valued for their unique differences.
What We Do, Together.
We are committed to providing opportunities for smaller, grassroots organizations, and organizations led by marginalized communities to apply for and receive support to carry out their vital work to marginalized groups, while improving equity, diversity, and inclusion across our community.
Our key focus areas of All That Kids Can Be, Healthy People, Strong Communities, and From Poverty to Possibility still apply, but we support this work from the lens of a marginalized community, including Black and racialized communities, Indigenous, newcomers and immigrants, women (including cis, trans, non-binary, intersex), people with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+.
United Way partners with local, front-line agencies to deliver key programs and services including:
- Programs to support the 2SLGBTQ+ community with improving their mental health and creating a greater sense of belonging.
- Women in crisis who have experienced sexual violence.
- Financial assistance for mobility devices to ensure people with disabilities can maintain their independence, regardless of their income.
- Peer-led learning programs for newcomers and immigrants.
- Services and support offered by local partners and volunteers with lived experience.
Together, with your investments, we’re creating equitable communities, where everyone feels valued and supported.